If you’re searching for a salad that’s crisp, vibrant, and bursting with fresh flavors, this Easy Shaved Fennel & Apple Salad Recipe is an absolute winner. The delicate crunch of shaved fennel paired with sweet, juicy apples creates a refreshing base that’s elevated beautifully by peppery rocket, sharp red onion, creamy Manchego cheese, and the satisfying bite of roasted pecans. Drizzled with a rich balsamic and maple dressing, this salad is as easy to make as it is delightful to eat, making it a perfect go-to for a light lunch, elegant starter, or a colorful side dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up view of a wooden bowl filled with a large mound of finely shredded pale yellow cheese on top. Beneath the cheese, there are thin slices of light-colored apple pieces visible, mixing with some small bits of red skin from the apple. The background shows a vase with white flowers and green leaves, with a soft light coming from the left side. The bowl rests on a white marbled texture surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Easy Shaved Fennel & Apple Salad Recipe lies in its simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in balancing texture, flavor, and visual appeal—making your salad both delicious and irresistible.

100 g rocket (arugula): Offers a peppery kick to brighten up the salad’s overall flavor.
1 red onion: Thinly sliced for a sharp, slightly sweet contrast that complements the apples.
2 apples: Choose crisp and juicy varieties for natural sweetness and texture.
1 small fennel bulb: Shaved thin to add a mild anise aroma and crunchy freshness.
150 g Manchego cheese, grated: Brings a nutty, creamy depth that pairs wonderfully with the fruit and nuts.
A handful of roasted pecans: Adds buttery crunch and a hint of toasted flavor.
4 tbsp balsamic vinegar: For a balanced tangy sweetness in the dressing.
2 tbsp maple syrup: Enhances the dressing with natural, earthy sweetness.
8 tbsp olive oil: Provides a smooth, luscious base to marry all the dressing ingredients.
1/2 tsp Dijon mustard: Lends a subtle sharpness and helps emulsify the dressing.
Flakey salt and freshly ground black pepper: To season perfectly and elevate all the flavors.

How to Make Easy Shaved Fennel & Apple Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables and Fruit

Start by washing the rocket and patting it dry so the dressing sticks better. Thinly slice the red onion and shave the fennel bulb using a mandoline or a sharp knife for delicate, even slices. Core the apples and slice them as thinly as you can to mirror the fennel’s texture; this ensures every bite is a harmonious blend of crunch and sweetness.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad Base

In a large salad bowl, combine the rocket, shaved fennel, apple slices, and red onion. Toss gently to mix these fresh elements without bruising the delicate leaves and slices.

Step 3: Add Cheese and Nuts

Sprinkle the grated Manchego over the tossed salad, then scatter the roasted pecans on top. These ingredients add creaminess and satisfying crunch that complement the lightness of the greens and fruit perfectly.

Step 4: Whisk Together the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking continuously to create a smooth, emulsified dressing. This balance of sweet, tangy, and earthy elements is what ties the entire salad together.

Step 5: Dress the Salad

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently but thoroughly, ensuring every leaf and slice is coated with that luscious, glossy dressing. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of fresh, crisp, and creamy flavors at their peak.

How to Serve Easy Shaved Fennel & Apple Salad Recipe

A wooden bowl contains a salad with several layers; the bottom layer is fresh green pieces with chopped pecans scattered mostly around the edges. Above this is a thick layer of finely shredded white cheese covering most of the salad. On top of this cheese layer, a thick brown dressing is pouring down in a smooth stream. The bowl is on a cloth with a pattern of green and mustard yellow leaves, and the background is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your salad, consider finishing it with a few additional toasted pecans or even some fresh herbs like parsley or chives. A light sprinkle of flakey sea salt just before serving heightens the flavors and adds a delicate crunch.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a hearty meal, or alongside a creamy risotto for a delightful contrast. It also works as a fresh accompaniment to rich stews or roasted meats, offering a crisp, bright counterpoint that refreshes your palate.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this salad in individual bowls or elegant glass cups for a stunning layered effect showing off the vibrant greens, pale fennel, and rosy apples. You can also arrange the ingredients on a large platter in distinct sections before drizzling the dressing, letting guests serve themselves and appreciate the colors and textures visually before mixing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, place the salad in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to one day. Keep the dressing separate if possible, to maintain the crispness of your fennel and apples.

Freezing

Since this salad is composed of fresh, crunchy ingredients, freezing is not recommended as it will alter the texture and water content of the apples, fennel, and rocket, making them soggy upon thawing.

Reheating

This salad is best served cold or at room temperature. Reheating is not necessary and would compromise the fresh crunch and vibrant flavors that make this Easy Shaved Fennel & Apple Salad Recipe so special.

FAQs

Can I substitute the Manchego cheese?

Absolutely! While Manchego offers a unique nutty flavor, you can substitute it with Parmesan, Pecorino Romano, or even a sharp cheddar depending on your preference. Just keep the cheese grated to maintain texture consistency.

What type of apples work best?

Choose crisp and slightly tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Pink Lady for the best balance of sweetness and acidity. These varieties hold up well when sliced and add a refreshing crunch.

Is it possible to make the salad vegan?

Yes! Simply omit the Manchego cheese and substitute the dressing’s honey or maple syrup with a maple-only sweetener if needed. To add richness, you might also toss in some toasted seeds or vegan cheese alternatives.

How can I add more protein to this salad?

Boost protein by topping your salad with grilled chicken strips, chickpeas, or toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts. Adding quinoa is another great way to make this salad more filling while keeping it healthy.

Can I prepare this salad in advance for a party?

You can prep all ingredients ahead of time; however, wait to toss the salad with the dressing until just before serving to keep everything crisp and fresh. Store the sliced apples and fennel separately with a little lemon juice to prevent browning.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly satisfying about a salad that feels this fresh, vibrant, and effortless to prepare. The Easy Shaved Fennel & Apple Salad Recipe strikes a perfect balance of textures and flavors that brighten any meal. I hope you give it a try and enjoy the crisp, colorful crunch as much as I do every time it graces my table!

Easy Shaved Fennel & Apple Salad Recipe